El Paso, Elsewhere Review: A Unique Cosmic Third-Person Shooter
In this review, we will explore the pop culture noir stylings of El Paso, Elsewhere, a cosmic third-person shooter that takes inspiration from a forgotten age. Developed and published by Strange Scaffold, this game offers a distinctive aesthetic that may not appeal to everyone, but for those who appreciate its unique blend of genres, it is sure to captivate and immerse.
Overview
El Paso, Elsewhere feels like a long-lost adaptation of a 90s Image Comics horror series, leaked years later by a disgruntled developer. It embraces the coolness of the era, featuring a protagonist named James Savage, who dons a trenchcoat and fights monsters with guns in each hand. The game is set in James’ dusty hometown, where his ex-girlfriend, who happens to be Dracula herself, has triggered an arcane ritual to end the world in a motel. James, dealing with his own problems, narrates his journey much like the iconic Max Payne. With gameplay mechanics reminiscent of Max Payne, El Paso, Elsewhere offers a thrilling and nostalgic experience for fans of the genre.
Gameplay
El Paso, Elsewhere presents a challenging combat system that requires more than just run-and-gun tactics. Players must learn to navigate the supernatural menagerie of werewolves, thralls, ghouls, teleporting zombie brides, and even biblical creatures. It quickly becomes apparent that a strategic approach is necessary to survive. Engaging in slow-motion dives and precise shots to the head become essential skills, allowing players to dispatch enemies efficiently. However, there are also alternative methods, such as using stakes salvaged from furniture to take down groups of enemies at once. As the game progresses, new enemies and their unique abilities pose additional challenges, making defensive maneuvers, like rolling, crucial for survival.
Atmosphere and Setting
El Paso, Elsewhere excels in creating an atmospheric and surreal setting. The motel, where most of the game takes place, feels alive and unpredictable. James engages in conversations with the motel itself, treating it as an adversary with a twisted sense of humor. Reality bends and leaks as players venture deeper into the motel, with different locations and objects from James’ and Draculae’s past merging together. Bathrooms lead to graveyards, which lead to ancient castles, resulting in a disorienting and captivating experience. The game cleverly incorporates snippets of radio ads and past conversations between James and Draculae, providing insight into their troubled relationship and the events that led to the world-threatening ritual.
Soundtrack and Immersion
The soundtrack of El Paso, Elsewhere greatly enhances the immersive experience. It seamlessly transitions between chill beats, creating a haunting ambiance, and intense, bass-heavy tracks that amplify the adrenaline-fueled combat sequences. The game reaches a transcendental state when players find themselves in a focused trance, precisely dispatching enemies while being surrounded by chaos. This meditative state, reminiscent of Hotline Miami, allows players to fully immerse themselves in the game’s unique atmosphere.
Conclusion
El Paso, Elsewhere may not be for everyone, but those who appreciate its pop culture noir stylings and cosmic third-person shooter gameplay will find themselves deeply immersed in its world. With its nostalgic references to the 90s and its engaging combat mechanics, the game offers a unique and captivating experience. Developed by Strange Scaffold and written by Xalavier Nelson Jr., El Paso, Elsewhere stands out as a testament to a forgotten age of gaming. Get ready to dwell on your worst break-up while shooting werewolves in this cosmic adventure.
This review was based on a copy provided by the developer Strange Scaffold. Strange Scaffold’s Creative Director is Xalavier Nelson Jr., who has written for RPS.